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Stoma prolapse

I had a stoma Ileostomies in October and whilst in hospital this prolapsed and was pushed back in. I was told that this does happen but for the past 10;days my stoma protrudes by approx 2 inches but does level out again overnight. Is this normal? Thanks for your help

Thanks for getting in touch. It’s only natural to worry when something new is happening with your stoma.

As you have had a prolapsed stoma in the past it is not unusual for it to happen again. The size of a prolapse can vary from 2-3cm to 10 cm or more. A prolapse can happen for various reasons- abdominal muscle weakness, increased pressure in the abdomen, heavy lifting etc.

It is not unusual for the stoma prolapse a small amount throughout the day as you are putting more pressure on your abdomen at this time. As you have described overnight your stoma goes back to a normal level this is because you are no longer putting pressure on your abdomen.

It is important that your stoma nurse is made aware of this. The stoma nurse can guide you through how to manage this. There may be different stoma bags available that can prevent a stoma prolapsing during the day.

If your stoma is not functioning properly or you have noticed a change in colour or you have noticed any bleeding it is important that you speak to your stoma nurse urgently.

Welcome to forum and I'm sorry that we have to meet under such circumstances but you have found a place that has a lot of people willing to help you.

I hope that Kat has provided enough information to help you manage your prolapse please don't be afraid to contact her again should you have any further concerns

I see that you have already joined our Ileostomy, colostomy and stoma support group and should I be of any help please don't hesitate to contact me, I'm normally available every day to answer any questions you may have to do with your stoma management.

Ian

Stoma Support CC

With 2 Certificates in Stoma Care and Management.

You can find me in* Stoma Support * Bowel * Carers * Anal * Family & Friends * Bereavement * Diagnosed at a Young Age * Parents of Young Children * New to the Community * Living with incurable cancer - incurable patients only / End of Life (and others)

Macmillan Support Team 0808 808 0000 Monday to Sunday 8 am to 8 pm, a delay in answering might be experienced.